Roads near Tha Phae Gate and the river can close or slow during peak hours. The most reliable approach is to walk between the Old City and the river. If you are staying farther away, use a songthaew or rideshare to reach a drop-off point before entering pedestrian areas. At the end of the night, expect queues. A calm walk back through quieter streets is often faster and more pleasant.

The Old City of Chiang Mai is compact and walkable. Its square moat measures less than two kilometers on each side, making most points accessible on foot or by a short ride. The inner streets are lined with temples, cafés, and small guesthouses, while the outer ring connects to major roads leading toward Nimman, the Night Bazaar, and the Ping River.

Many visitors begin by walking, especially in the morning or late afternoon when the light softens and the air cools. Sidewalks can be narrow or uneven, but traffic moves slowly. You will find drink stalls, 7-Elevens, and shaded rest spots almost everywhere. Still, for longer distances or when the heat builds, transport options quickly become useful.

Songthaews (pronounced “song-tows”) are Chiang Mai’s most distinctive local transport. The name means “two benches,” referring to the seats in the back of these modified red pickup trucks. They operate as a mix between bus and taxi (flexible, inexpensive, and constantly on the move).

To catch one, simply flag a passing red truck from the roadside. Tell the driver your destination, and if it matches their route, they will nod and you can hop in. Fares inside the city usually range within a small, standard amount. If the driver quotes more, it may mean your route lies outside the city center or you want private use of the vehicle. Payment is done directly to the driver when you get off.

Songthaews are ideal for short hops between the Old City, Nimman, and the Night Bazaar. For nearby attractions such as Wat Umong or Doi Suthep, you can hire one privately. Negotiating the fare in advance is normal, drivers are generally friendly and used to visitors. Carry small bills, as change for large notes is rare.

Next to the red trucks, the tuk tuk remains an iconic way to experience Thai street life. These three-wheeled motor taxis buzz around with a familiar growl, offering direct rides for short to medium distances. Fares are higher than songthaews but they provide privacy and speed. Tuk tuks are most common near markets, major intersections, and the Old City gates.

As most are independently operated, there are no meters. Simply state your destination and agree on a price before setting off. Short rides within central areas stay affordable; longer trips or late-night rides cost a bit more. For two passengers, tuk tuks are comfortable enough, and many drivers decorate their vehicles with personal flair . LED strips, mirrors, or bright stickers, the ride is breezy and open, so hold onto your bag and enjoy the city at eye level.

Chiang Mai’s rideshare scene is well developed. Grab (the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber) is widely used for car and motorbike rides. Pricing is transparent through the app, and cashless payment is possible. It’s convenient for airport pickups, evening returns, or travel outside the central area when you prefer a door-to-door ride.

Other local apps occasionally appear, but Grab remains the most reliable. Car drivers are polite, usually speak enough English for basic communication, and know popular locations well. During festivals or rainy nights, waiting times can increase, so booking in advance helps. For groups, Grab’s multi-seat car options are a comfortable alternative to taxis.

For those staying longer or eager to explore independently, renting a scooter can be very convenient. Chiang Mai’s roads are generally manageable, and most rental shops provide automatic 110-125cc scooters, helmets, and optional insurance. Daily and monthly rates are reasonable. Bring your passport, driving license, and a small cash deposit or copy for paperwork.

Before renting, check that the scooter is in good condition, functioning lights, brakes, mirrors, and horn. Always wear a helmet, even on short rides. Locals value safe and courteous driving. Remember that Thailand drives on the left, and traffic circles around the Old City can be busy during rush hours. Stay within your comfort zone, ride defensively, and avoid peak intersections if you’re new to the area.

Local Tips for Confident Riders

• Learn the rhythm: traffic flows smoothly once you match its pace: slow, steady, and predictable.
• Be visible: use lights at dusk and avoid wearing dark clothing at night.
• Know the main routes: the moat road (Rachadamnoen and its ring) circles the Old City clockwise on one side, counterclockwise on the other.
• Carry a digital copy of your passport and international license when riding outside the city.
• Stay informed: some areas occasionally host roadside checks for documentation and helmet use, so keep everything ready and ride responsibly.

Many travelers appreciate a short introduction from locals before setting off. Stay in CNX can connect guests with trusted partners who offer scooter orientation sessions and route planning advice. This way, you can explore with confidence, knowing what to expect on different roads and at various times of day.

Sometimes convenience matters more than adventure. When joining tours or day trips through Stay in CNX, transport is included automatically. Travelers are picked up directly from their accommodation (hotel, guesthouse, condo, or Airbnb) and returned after the experience. This door-to-door approach removes the stress of arranging taxis or navigating early-morning pickup points.

Vehicles used for tours are clean, air-conditioned, and driven by professionals familiar with the region’s roads. For trips to Doi Inthanon, Chiang Dao, or rural craft villages, this service saves time and ensures you reach each stop safely. Most guests find the included transfer as valuable as the tour itself, especially after a long day outdoors.

Within the Old City, bicycles remain a pleasant option. Some hotels and cafés rent them by the hour or day. Flat terrain and compact distances make cycling enjoyable in early mornings before traffic thickens. Helmets are not always provided, so bringing or renting one separately is wise. Increasingly, eco-tour companies also offer guided e-bike tours that cover city temples and surrounding countryside with minimal effort.

Do not underestimate walking as a mode of discovery. The slow pace reveals details you might otherwise miss a quiet shrine, an old wooden house, a street-side noodle shop. Chiang Mai’s center is safe for pedestrians, though crossing multi-lane roads requires patience. Use marked crosswalks when available and make eye contact with drivers before stepping out. Comfortable sandals or sneakers are essential, especially if you plan to wander from temple to café to market.

1. Morning: Walk or cycle within the Old City, visiting temples and cafés.
2. Midday: Take a songthaew or Grab to lunch spots or workshops in Nimman or along the Ping River.
3. Afternoon: Relax at a café, then use a short tuk tuk ride back toward your accommodation.
4. Evening: Head out again with a rideshare to the night market or join a tour with included pickup.